Research

Catalytic conversion of cheap and abundant raw materials into value-added chemicals is one of the main frontiers in synthetic inorganic chemistry. Our research group focuses on the development of new catalytic systems for the conversion of cheap and abundant small molecules, such as dinitrogen (N2), carbon dioxide (CO2), dihydrogen (H2), and hydrocarbons, to value-added chemicals/materials. We are targeting the synthesis of homogeneous catalysts for such catalytic transformation based on cheap and non-toxic main group elements and transition metals, and understanding the mechanism of relevant catalytic processes at the molecular level with the help of a diverse array of experimental and theoretical methods. Some of our major research directions are as follows: 

• The Chemistry of Low-valent Main Group Compounds

• Complexes with Transition Metal-Main Group Element Multiple Bonds

• Small Molecule Activation and Catalysis with 3d-Transition Metal Complexes

• Application of Low-valent Main Group Compounds in Small Molecule Activation and Catalysis